Is America a police state?

You have to wonder about that question. The bigger question, to me, is why of 435 reps and 100 senators, U.S. Rep. Ron Paul seems to be the only one who cares about these issues. On the other hand, Paul answers that question during this brilliant 2002 floor speech:

"It reminds me of the time I was soliciting political support from a voter and was boldly put down: 'Ron,' she said, 'I wish you would lay off this freedom stuff; it's all nonsense. We're looking for a Representative who will know how to bring home the bacon and help our area, and you're not that person.' Believe me, I understand that argument; it's just that I don't agree that is what should be motivating us here in the Congress."

In arguing against creation of the Ministry of Homeland Security, Paul lists all of the reasons why stripping us of freedom here at home will not make us safer ...

"Where is all this leading us? Are we moving toward a safer and more secure society? I think not. All the discussions of these proposed plans since 9/11 have been designed to condition the American people to accept major changes in our political system. Some of the changes being made are unnecessary, and others are outright dangerous to our way of life.

"There is no need for us to be forced to choose between security and freedom. Giving up freedom does not provide greater security. Preserving and better understanding freedom can. Sadly today, many are anxious to give up freedom in response to real and generated fears."

Paul's litany is scary, and this was in 2002; remember three more years have passed since he said:

"Since September 11th, Congress has responded with a massive barrage of legislation not seen since Roosevelt took over in 1933. Where Roosevelt dealt with trying to provide economic security, today's legislation deals with personal security from any and all imaginable threats, at any cost- dollar or freedom-wise. These efforts include:
-The Patriot Act, which undermines the 4th Amendment with the establishment of an overly broad and dangerous definition of terrorism.
- The Financial Anti-Terrorism Act, which expands the government's surveillance of the financial transactions of all American citizens through increased power to FinCen and puts back on track the plans to impose "Know Your Customer" rules on all Americans, which had been sought after for years.
-The airline bailout bill gave $15 billion, rushed through shortly after 9/11.
- The federalization of all airline security employees.
-Military tribunals set up by executive order-undermining the rights of those accused- rights established as far back in history as 1215.
- Unlimited retention of suspects without charges being made, even when a crime has not been committed- a serious precedent that one day may well be abused.
- Relaxation of FBI surveillance guidelines of all political activity.
- Essentially monopolizing vaccines and treatment for infectious diseases, permitting massive quarantines and mandates for vaccinations."

Thanks to John Newman for digging this gem out of the archives. It's a long read, but then, it's been a long journey down the road into darkness.